He was a professor of Hindi by occupation and was often compared with late Shahryar, another quality poet. He wrote in both Hindi and Urdu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on the death of Gopaldas Saxena as “Saddened by the demise of noted poet and lyricist Shri Gopaldas ‘Neeraj.’ Shri Neeraj’s unique style connected him with people from all walks of life, across generations. His works are unforgettable gems, which will live on and inspire many. Condolences to his admirers”

Saxena was survived by a daughter and three daughters. His daughter Kundanika Sharma said that family will go to Aligarh on Friday in order to fulfill her father ’s last wish of donating his body.